A cock is the male of any type of domestic fowl, and cockfighting is a blood sport in which two (or more) cocks are placed in a ring or confined area and encouraged to attack or fight each other. Cockfighting is illegal in all 50 states and the District of Columbia—but remains legal in Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Although cockfighting is illegal in all states, the potential punishment for the crime varies from state to state. In thirteen states, a first offense charge of cockfighting is a misdemeanor—including Alabama, California, Hawaii, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, New Mexico, Ohio, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Utah, and West Virginia. But in California, Louisiana, and New Mexico, second, third, and subsequent offenses may be prosecuted as felonies.

And some states also prohibit possession of cockfighting tools (implements) such as a gaff or slasher; ownership and training of cocks for the purpose of cockfighting; and attending cockfighting events.
Cockfighting laws are generally located in a state’s statutes—and usually in the state’s penal or criminal code.

In New Mexico (NM), cockfighting is illegal and is addressed under the state's statutes, specifically within the penal or criminal code. A first offense of cockfighting in New Mexico is classified as a misdemeanor. However, for second, third, and subsequent offenses, the charges may escalate to felonies, indicating more severe penalties for repeat offenders. Additionally, New Mexico law not only prohibits the act of cockfighting itself but also extends to the possession of cockfighting implements, such as gaffs or slashers, the ownership and training of cocks with the intent for them to fight, as well as attending events where cockfighting takes place. These laws reflect a strong stance against the practice of cockfighting and related activities, aiming to deter participation in this illegal blood sport.